Sharing My Journey With The World — Instagram Has Helped Me Through Motherhood

I have always been a private person. I kept my life private, my next move was only something I knew of and only a select few knew what my life was like. I’m glad to say those three people are still my best friends, my family, nine years later.

When I found out I was pregnant with Anaís, I was overjoyed. I wanted to tell everyone but I also wanted to keep it within my circle. However, as my pregnancy progressed, I found myself googling at least 10 questions daily and constantly worrying if everything I was experiencing was normal. I could tell I was overwhelming those around me, including my doctor. I wanted to speak to another woman who was experiencing pregnancy. My mom wasn’t of much help because things were so different when she was pregnant with me 24 years ago. I didn’t have any friends who were pregnant so I was stuck in a bit of a rut.

I was scrolling through Instagram one day when I saw a beautiful picture of a mom with her little girl. Curiosity got the best of me and I clicked on her page. Her feed was filled with pictures of her daughter, her husband, and her family. I hadn’t spent much time browsing instagrams discover tab, so I never knew Instagram accounts like these existed. My page was engulfed in selfies, my weekend bar adventures, and my latest Forever21 haul. This was so new to me. As I went through her feed I noticed that she had a blog, I clicked on her link. It was perfectly organized and inviting. I read everything! She spoke of pregnancy symptoms, how life changed and etc. I followed her. A ton of other mamas started appearing in my suggested feed. I was excited! I had no idea a community like this existed! But I guess if anytime was a good time to discover it, it was now.

“I decided to share my pregnancy with the world.”

I started building a relationship with these mamas. Some were moms-to-be like myself and some already had a few littles. We exchanged messages and talked about our struggles and achievements. Their advice helped me get through some meltdowns during pregnancy (although my hubby helped me more than he’ll ever know). It was wonderful knowing I wasn’t the only person freaking out about every new symptom or change.

As my body changed, I began to feel more comfortable in this new stage of life. In fact, I couldn’t be more excited that I was creating life! I decided to share my pregnancy with the world. As each week passed, I shared a picture of my bump. I was proud of my growing belly.

Anaís was born on April of 2017. We spent one night in the hospital and went home. Here I was, with this tiny, beautiful, human that I created. I had no idea where to start or what to do. I found myself feeding, cleaning and caring for her. It was this natural instinct that took over. However, I was still in shock with this new motherhood thing. I felt alone. I didn’t want to ask anyone for help, I wanted to do it all on my own. I’ve always been proud that way.

The late night feedings, the breastfeeding questions, the lack of sleep. I found comfort in talking to other moms who faced the exact same struggles. Let’s be real, motherhood isn’t an exclusive thing. We’re all struggling in some way, it’s nice to have someone to talk to about our troubles. Especially people we can relate to and whom we can share advice.

I debated on whether or not I wanted to start my own motherhood blog. I wanted to help other moms and moms-to-be, the way others helped me. The hubby helped me gain the confidence to do so.

I started with my birth story. The amount of feedback I received was amazing. I loved that so many people connected with my story and found it enjoyable to read. I then began writing more posts, diving deeper and sharing my journey in motherhood.

My little has been teaching me so much as the months progress. My fears have subsided and I’m enjoying every moment with her. I haven’t gotten the hang of this motherhood thing yet, but I’m getting there.

I have been real and honest in all of my posts. Becoming a mother isn’t the easiest thing but my gosh is it an amazing adventure. I enjoy sharing pictures of my beautiful little creation. I enjoy sharing pictures of my wonderful husband. I enjoy sharing pictures of my wonderful family, the people who bring so much joy to my life.

Many of you have asked if I’m okay sharing my experiences and all that goes into my life. My answer is yes. Of course I still keep many details about my life private but I share the ones I feel could help others. Learning how to breastfeed, dealing with people pushing their parenting advice, losing friends, and so much more.

My life isn’t perfect and that’s okay. I don’t manufacture our outings, I don’t pretend to be something I’m not, I don’t force my family into situations they don’t want to be in. I make sure I’m nothing but honest with all that I share. Some of you have even asked if the products I share are brands that I use and the answer to that, is also yes. I would never promote something I don’t believe in.

The reason you’re reading this post is because you probably want to hear my story on why I enjoy sharing my journey of motherhood with the world. Some of you even told me you would feel uncomfortable having so many strangers see pictures of your children. Thats okay too. Not everyone has to have an IG feed filled with photos of their littles.

I’m so proud of this little family that I have and all that we’ve created. I enjoy sharing it with the world and I love running after my little with a camera in my hand. She might hate me for it in the future — haha, but I can’t help myself! It’s funny because prior to becoming pregnant, I was obsessed with taking pictures of my self. Now it’s the opposite. It’s interesting how your perspective changes after having a baby.

Motherhood isn’t easy, but with a community behind you, it makes it all the better!

I always enjoy reading your posts about motherhood. I can’t wait to be a mom someday! I’m scared but knowing there’s moms like you out there that are willing to help, is wonderful! Best wishes, Mila xx